Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has refused to grant a stay on the arrest of the family members of Nikita Sharma, the wife of deceased TCS manager Manav Sharma, in connection with his suicide. The decision, delivered by the bench of Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Prashant Kumar, comes after Nikita’s family filed a petition seeking to quash the FIR and prevent their arrest.
The case stems from the tragic suicide of Manav Sharma, who was found dead on February 24, 2024, in his residence in Defence Colony, Agra. Manav, who had married Nikita on January 30, 2024, recorded a video before his death, alleging that his wife was involved in an extramarital affair.
Manav’s father, Narendra Kumar Sharma, a retired Air Force officer, filed a complaint at the Sadar Bazar police station in Agra on February 28, leading to the registration of an FIR under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The FIR names Nikita, her father Nripendra Kumar Sharma, her mother Poonam Sharma, and her two sisters as accused. Nikita herself is currently absconding.
The court’s decision to deny the stay on arrest was heavily influenced by the live video recording made by Manav before his suicide. In the video, Manav detailed his distress over his wife’s alleged infidelity and expressed his feelings of hopelessness. He also apologized to his parents and sister, indicating the severe emotional turmoil he was experiencing.
According to police investigations, Manav had received direct messages on Instagram revealing details about Nikita’s past relationships. This information reportedly led to confrontations and escalating tension between the couple. Manav confided in his sister about the revelations, indicating his growing distress.
Narendra Kumar Sharma alleged that on February 23, when Manav went to drop Nikita at her parents’ home, her family threatened him, stating they would not allow a divorce and would implicate his parents in false cases. He claimed that these threats pushed Manav into severe depression, ultimately leading to his suicide.
In their defense, Nikita released two videos. In the first video, she admitted to having a past relationship with a man named Abhishek, which she had disclosed to Manav before their marriage, albeit without revealing the full extent of their relationship. She explained that she feared losing Manav and had tried to conceal parts of her past. In a subsequent video, Nikita claimed that Manav had attempted suicide multiple times and that she had intervened to save him. She also alleged that Manav had been abusive and struggled with alcohol addiction, claims she said she had brought to the attention of his parents, who allegedly dismissed her concerns.
However, the High Court, after reviewing the evidence, including the live video recording, rejected the petition filed by Nikita’s parents and sisters. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which it views the evidence presented in Manav’s suicide video.
The case has garnered significant attention, with digital evidence, including the video and social media messages, playing a crucial role in the investigation. Experts have indicated that such digital evidence is sufficient for arrest and prosecution. It is anticipated that Nikita may also approach the Allahabad High Court to seek protection from arrest.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to apprehend Nikita and further unravel the circumstances surrounding Manav Sharma’s tragic death.
